Characterization of RF signals in different types of water

Underwater communication at microwave frequencies overcome the data rate and bandwidth limitations of acoustic communication and the environmental problems associated with optical-based underwater networks. It has several applications in underwater sensors networks. In view of potential applications to 5G, we conducted experimental tests and computer simulations to investigate the propagation losses encountered by microwave signals in the licensed and license-free frequencies (up to 2.6 GHz) in freshwater and seawater. Our results indicate the feasibility of microwave communication in freshwater at the licensed mobile frequencies.